What is a terrain feature that is created by the removal of earth material called?

The term used to describe a terrain feature created by the removal of earth material is "cut." Cuts are typically formed during construction activities such as road building or excavation. In these scenarios, material is intentionally removed from the earth to create a level surface or to allow for a change in elevation. This distinctly contrasts with other terrain features, such as hills, which are formed through the accumulation of earth and other materials, rather than their removal.

Depressions are generally low-lying areas but do not specifically refer to the act of removing material to create the feature. Similarly, a hill is an elevation created by the accumulation of earth, and raise, while not a common geological term, also suggests an increase in elevation rather than a removal. Thus, "cut" specifically captures the essence of a terrain feature created by the negative process of excavation or removal of earth material.